# Explain how the greenhouse effect keeps the Earth warm enough to support life.

> Eduqas GCSE Chemistry — C9 Chemistry of the atmosphere · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Short-wave/solar radiation from the Sun passes through the atmosphere and reaches the Earth's surface
2. The Earth's surface absorbs this radiation and re-emits it as longer-wave/infrared radiation
3. Greenhouse gases in the atmosphere absorb this infrared radiation (preventing it from escaping into space)
4. The absorbed energy is re-emitted in all directions, including back towards Earth, raising/maintaining the Earth's temperature

## Key terms

- [greenhouse effect](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/greenhouse-effect)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Chemistry](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-greenhouse-effect-keeps-366f72a6) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.